1 Scope

1.1 This standard covers the sustainability of plastic articles, and fiber materials that are used with plastic packaging, that are used to contain, handle, protect, and/or transport a solid or liquid product from the point of packaging to the consumer. This includes but is not limited to rigid and flexible bottles, bags, pouches, certain films, carded packaging, or any other plastic-based primary packaging or packaging components and systems intended for use with consumer package goods. A certification to this standard may be applied to other packaging articles that use the same materials and design by the manufacturer that holds the certification.

1.2 Secondary packaging which meets the material and performance characteristics of primary packaging is also covered.

1.3 Industrial packaging is not included within the scope of the standard.

1.4 Sustainability factors for plastic packaging addressed in this standard include:

1. a) Limitations on regulated contaminants;

2. b) Promotion of the reuse and recyclability of materials;

3. c) The use of cellulose fibers as an ingredient in the packaging materials or a component of a packaging system;

4. d) Energy use and material efficiency;

5. e) Extension of useful life and end of life management;

6. f) Sustainability of packaging for transport to consumer;

7. g) Corporate practices;

8. h) Manufacturing and operations; and

9. i) Innovation.

Summary of Topics

This is the First Edition of UL 3420, Standard for Sustainability for Plastic Packaging and Packaging Components, dated June 3, 2022 which covers the sustainability of plastic articles, and fiber materials that are used with plastic packaging, that are used to contain, handle, protect, and/or transport a solid or liquid product from the point of packaging to the consumer.